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Coral reef restoration at Amaya Kuda Rah Maldives

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Known internationally as one of the world’s best scuba diving destinations, Maldives has an abundance of dive sites with a unique underwater beauty to explore. The islands of the Maldives have consistently warm waters with outstanding visibility throughout the year, and consist of exhilarating dive sites such as vibrant thilas, exciting channels, coral-filled overhangs and fascinating wrecks.

Maldives’ world-renowned coral reefs play a fundamental role in food production, shoreline protection, and tourism revenue, but ocean plastic threatens the survival of shallow coral reefs. Preservation of the reefs has become more important than ever.

In 1998, a severe El Niño event resulted in unusually warm waters (3-4 °C) above normal. This caused a mass bleaching and die off of Maldivian coral reefs.

Just as recovery reached its peak, another El Niño hit. The 2015-2016 El Niño weather phenomena and associated sea surface temperature anomalies in 2016 caused one of the largest recorded episodes of mass bleaching in the Maldives. A subsequent survey of 71 sites across the Maldives conducted by IUCN found that 73 per cent of corals had undergone bleaching, indicating a severe bleaching event.

Being one of the new additions to the vast collection of resorts in the pristine South Ari Atoll, Amaya Kuda Rah Maldives had embarked on a project to restore the surrounding coral reef, which was also affected as a result of the 2016 El Niño. On acquiring the resort in mid-2016, Hayleys PLC of Sri Lanka realised the important role the island’s reef played in protecting the surrounding natural habitat. The resort partnered with Reefscapers Maldives, and commenced a coral conservation and regeneration project in March 2017.

“With the personal commitment and initiative taken by our Chairman towards this project, we introduced their artificial coral frame reef system, which have been placed successfully since the year 2001 in several resorts in Maldives. The shape of the frames reduced coral predation and sedimentation and provided a suitable substrate on to which coral could grow. In addition Reefscapers also conducts awareness training to the resort team during their visits to increase awareness and taking ownership as well on our commitment,” Michael Armstrong, the General Manager at Amaya Kuda Rah Maldives, said.

The coral frames are designed and made on the local island of Fulhadhoo in Baa atoll — a unique opportunity, started by Reefscapers Maldives, that provides employment for several local people and allows them to develop skills outside of traditional fishing. The transplantation process involves attaching coral fragments onto the metal frame, which grow and mature into new colonies. The fragments are collected from broken natural reef corals, and later harvested from own mature coral frames for the “second generation”.

In 2017, the first frames were placed on the north-east side of the reef, and the growth rate has been amazing! In just two-three weeks, the coral fragments have attached themselves onto the frame. Two months later, new coral growth was evident and fish had moved in.

Throughout the year, Amaya Kuda Rah Maldives’ on-property dive centre oversees the project. For every frame, the team at Divepoint Maldives follows a strict monitoring process, taking regular photographs of the coral growth, and identifying the marine life that starts to colonise the frames. By propagating the most successful species, the team is developing ever-more resistant coral offspring, better adapted to withstand higher sea water temperatures and so help the reefs in their fight against global warming.

“The positive impact of the project has been seen over the past couple of years in the surrounding reef, as well as for the guest experience whilst snorkelling, due to the increase in the number of several fish species brought on by the new coral habitat provided by the coral farm. The ongoing work will surely enhance the guest experience further by providing a better snorkelling experience of the reef surrounding the resort island,” Armstrong said.

Exactly two years since its inception in March 2017, the project has advanced into the second phase. With additional funding from Hayleys PLC and its subsidiary Amaya Resorts, more coral frames are being placed along the western side of the island, which will bring the number of frames submerged around the Kuda Rah island to over 70 in the coming months. The resort has plans to add even more frames to several other areas, including its main dive point and around the water villas.

The programme is also now open to sponsorship. Guests can choose the size of frame and, if they like, dedicate it to someone special or put their own name on it. The Divepoint team will build the personalised coral frame and add it to the reef ecosystem. Sponsors will receive bi-annual photo updates of their coral frame via Reefscapers’ website. Proceeds from each frame go into an environmental fund established by the resort to support its marine conservation research programmes and community initiatives.

Coral reefs are invaluable to the fishing and tourism industry — two major economic activities in the Maldives. They protect the shoreline from storm damage and help manage carbon dioxide levels. However, 60 per cent of the world’s coral reefs are estimated to be threatened due to human activity. The full extent of damage sustained by the 2016 El Niño is still unknown!

Artificial reef projects have become an invaluable tool for restoring reefs and nurturing the damaged reefs back to health. With its ambitious initiative, Amaya Kuda Rah Maldives is leading by example.

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Celebrating 25th anniversary of Rannamaari Shipwreck at Dhawa Ihuru Maldives

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Dhawa Ihuru celebrated the 25th anniversary of the iconic Rannamaari shipwreck, a key feature of their renowned house reef and a symbol of marine conservation this October. Since its sink in 1999, the Rannamaari has transformed into a thriving artificial reef, attracting diverse marine life and offering unforgettable diving experiences for enthusiasts from around the world.

Dhawa Ihuru’s house reef, considered one of the best in the Maldives, is home to a vibrant haven of Maldivian marine life and is easily accessible from the shore. The Rannamaari wreck is a key attraction, offering divers a unique opportunity to explore the wreck’s colourful coral growth and the diverse species that inhabit it. The reef is also central to Dhawa Ihuru’s marine conservation initiatives, serving as a living example of how artificial reefs can support marine biodiversity and environmental sustainability.

A 25-Year Celebration Week Marathon

From 4th to 6th October, Dhawa Ihuru invited guests to join event marathon for Sunken Stories – 25 Years Beneath The Waves, a weekend of celebration, exploration, and education in honour of this milestone. Guests had the opportunity to participate in a variety of exciting activities, designed for both divers and non-divers, blending marine conservation with Maldivian exotic culture and history:

  • Exclusive Shipwreck Dives: Explore the wonders of the Rannamaari wreck through day and night dives, showcasing the vibrant marine life and coral formations.
  • Freediving to Shipwreck: Challenge yourself with a freediving experience to explore the depths of the Rannamaari wreck.
  • Shipwreck Treasure Hunt Dive: Join an exhilarating underwater treasure hunt around the historic wreck.
  • Underwater Photography Contest: Capture the beauty of the wreck and compete in our photography contest for a chance to win exciting prizes.

For those seeking cultural and creative activities, the event offered a blend of art, mindfulness and local tradition experiences:

  • Stone Carving Workshop: Learn the traditional craft of stone carving in a hands-on workshop led by a local artist.
  • Morning Yoga Sessions: Start your day with a revitalising morning yoga session, surrounded by the tranquillity of Dhawa Ihuru.
  • Marine Conservation Talk: Discover Dhawa Ihuru’s marine conservation efforts and find out how you can contribute to protecting the ocean.
  • Rannamaari Folklore Performance: Enjoy live performances of Maldivian folklore, bringing the history of the Rannamaari to life.

A Commitment to Marine Conservation

The Rannamaari shipwreck is at the heart of Dhawa Ihuru’s dedication to marine conservation. Over the past 25 years, the wreck has developed into a vibrant underwater ecosystem, supporting coral growth and a variety of marine species including batfish, moray eels, and groupers. It is a testament to the effectiveness of artificial reefs in fostering marine biodiversity and regenerating reef ecosystems.

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Join exclusive LUX Tennis Star Clinic with Alejandro Davidovich Fokina at Patina Maldives

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Tennis enthusiasts are in for a treat this November as Patina Maldives hosts the prestigious LUX Tennis Star Event, featuring the dynamic Spanish tennis sensation, Alejandro Davidovich Fokina. Currently ranked World No. 32, Davidovich Fokina is celebrated for his aggressive play, powerful forehand, and competitive spirit. Formerly ranked World No. 21 and the 2017 Wimbledon boys’ singles champion, he brings much experience and excitement to the court.

This event promises to be a remarkable experience for tennis fans of all ages, providing an unparalleled opportunity to learn from one of the sport’s rising stars.

This is a great opportunity to witness Alejandro Davidovich Fokina’s mastery on the court and gain valuable insights to elevate your own game.

The event will run from November 11th to 18th, 2024, offering a unique opportunity for guests to engage with Davidovich Fokina through a series of exclusive activities designed to enhance their tennis skills and provide unforgettable experiences.

Event Highlights:

  • Meet and Greet Sessions: Get up close and personal with Alejandro Davidovich Fokina on November 11th and 14th.
  • Adult Clinics: Participate in group sessions on November 12th, 15th, 16th, and 17th.
  • Private Lessons: Enjoy personalised coaching on November 13th and 16th.
  • Kids Clinic: Young tennis enthusiasts can join a group session on November 14th.
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Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa welcomes Elena Vesnina for weekend of tennis and luxury

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Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa has announced the upcoming arrival of tennis professional Elena Vesnina, who will host a series of exclusive tennis clinics and activities from December 11th to 14th, 2024. The resort was recently recognised with the TTM Editor’s Choice Best Resort for Sports & Fitness award.

Elena Vesnina, a prominent Russian tennis player, is celebrated for her exceptional skill and achievements in both singles and doubles. Over her career, she has won three WTA singles titles, including a notable victory at the prestigious Indian Wells tournament in 2017. In doubles, Vesnina has claimed an impressive 19 WTA titles, including Grand Slam victories at the French Open in 2013, the US Open in 2014, and Wimbledon in 2017, all alongside her partner Ekaterina Makarova. Additionally, she earned a gold medal in women’s doubles at the 2016 Rio Olympics and won the mixed doubles at the Australian Open that same year. Her versatility and skill have positioned her as a formidable competitor in women’s tennis, achieving a career-high doubles ranking of No. 1 and a peak singles ranking of No. 13.

Vesnina’s visit will offer guests a unique opportunity to enhance their tennis skills against the stunning backdrop of Maldivian scenery. During her stay, she will provide her social media followers with real-time insights into the luxurious experiences offered by Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa.

Guests staying at the resort between December 11th and 14th, 2024, will have the chance to participate in complimentary daily group tennis clinics, suitable for all skill levels. Each one-hour clinic will be conducted alongside the resort’s resident tennis coach and will offer personalised guidance for up to four participants per session. Vesnina will host four one-hour group clinics for adults over four days, and another four one-hour group clinics for children (ages 8 and above) over the same period.

Private classes will also be available upon request, subject to coach availability, with a fee applied to these sessions.

This exclusive event provides guests with a unique opportunity to learn from a tennis champion while highlighting Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa as a premier destination for sports enthusiasts and luxury travellers alike.

Located in the north of the Maldives, Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa is a top choice for active travellers, offering a wide range of activities both on land and over water. The resort boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including two tennis courts, a fully equipped gym, indoor badminton, football, basketball, golfing, beach volleyball, Padel, and a dedicated yoga space. With ample jogging and biking paths, guests can stay active in a breathtaking tropical environment.

The resort also provides mindfulness meditation, yoga, and a wellness-oriented slow-life balance for those seeking relaxation. Water enthusiasts can enjoy jet-skiing, windsurfing, a floating aqua park, and paddleboarding, as well as guided snorkeling and diving excursions that reveal the vibrant marine life of the Maldives. Here, sports and relaxation come together seamlessly, making it an ideal choice for active luxury travellers.

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